East Knox schools locked down, closed after reported threat

East Knox Local Schools were locked down Monday due to a threat to the high school.

According to a statement from Superintendent Richard Baird, the district received an anonymous phone call at 11:18 a.m. Monday, with the subject stating they were armed and intended to enter the high school. Both the elementary and high schools were immediately locked down and officials called 9-1-1.

The East Knox School Resource Officer immediately began assessing the situation and implementing security measures. Officers from several law enforcement agencies arrived and began securing the area. According to Knox County Sheriff Dan Weckesser, they then conducted a full and thorough sweep of the entire campus, determining there was no active threat present.

The district implemented the school reunification plan, evacuating all students to school buses where they were transported to the designated reunification location. There, students were released safety to their parents/guardians.

“I want to thank our students and staff for following procedures, our families for their patience, and our local law enforcement agencies for their rapid response and professionalism. The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority, and today’s response reflected the importance of preparation and partnership,” Baird said in the statement.

All Monday evening activities were cancelled or rescheduled. The school remained closed Tuesday as the district and law enforcement officials continue their investigation into the matter.

Danville schools were also on lockdown for a short period of time Monday due to the threat at East Knox.

Anyone with questions can call the East Knox offices (740-599-7000) during regular school hours, and anyone with information on the threat can call Knox County Sheriff’s Office Detective Matt White at 740-397-3333.